As the holy month dawns upon us, the fear of losing all the good and mindful habits that have been built becomes greater, and the imminent overeating fiasco threatens to begin with its full glory. For individuals trying to maintain mindful eating during Ramadan, a lot of control and trust in one’s inner strength is required. This article takes a deep dive into mindful eating and tries to uncover the truth behind overeating in Ramadan and how one may be able to prevent it.Â
Why Do We Overeat During Ramadan? Why Is Mindful Eating Important?
Overeating is a common issue that occurs for most of us during Ramadan. Even the people with the strongest willpower seem to lose their control over their hunger and overindulge in the feasts prepared in Iftar and Suhoor. Due to the long hours spent without food and water, the short moments of being allowed to eat become a sort of eating competition for most of us. By practicing mindful eating, individuals can remain healthy, stay in touch with their bodies, and do not have to go through hours of laziness after being filled with greasy and unhealthy meals. By slowing down our food consumption, we can remain consistent and understand our hunger cues a lot easily. This approach promotes healthy eating, prevents overeating and also allows us to have a more healthy relationship with food.Â
How To Maintain And Create Mindful Eating Habits During Ramadan?
There are certain methods that can help us, maintain and create, mindful, eating habits during the month of Ramadan, and the best methods to maintain mindful eating are:Â
- Intention
It is essential to start each and every day, with the intention of not over eating. Try to remind yourself the main lesson behind Ramadan, and focus on things that are important. Even though overheating may seem like the best option, it certainly is not.
- Eat Suhoor Wisely
Try to consume nutritious meals for Suhoor, that provide a lot of energy throughout the day. Try consuming whole grains, protein rich foods, vegetables, fruits or dates to keep your body energized and unsatisfied throughout the whole day.
- Practice Moderation
Eating certainly does not refer to letting go of all of the tasty meals prepared in Ramadan. It means staying moderate with the portions you consume. start with taking less food into your plate, and keeping your portions small.
- Eat Slowly
One of the biggest mistakes that we make is instantly scarfing down the food, in uncomparable speed. We act like the food is running away from us, but it is a foolish thought. It is essential to calm the body down and listen to its cues to prevent overeating.Â
- Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water when you can, to make sure your body remains hydrated throughout the day. Try to avoid the consumption of sugary drinks or carbonated sodas, which can cause unnecessary dehydration and energy fluctuations. Try to follow the body’s natural water needs and its thirst cues. It can help you stay calm and fresh throughout the whole day.Â
It is essential for individuals to understand the main lesson behind Ramadan and that is why The Calm Planet is constantly trying to help individuals create a healthy relationship with food. A month of fasting is considered to be a time that teaches us about patience, and coming closer to Allah. We are to refrain from any negative behaviors that may cause harm to us or others. Overeating is considered to be a negative behavior which can cause harm, and remaining mindful about what we eat can be a great way to stay in control over our own bodies and prevent any further health issues.Â